This year, foster families across the county have had the opportunity to gather for two family fun day celebrations.
In May, during Foster Care Fortnight - The Fostering Network’s annual campaign to raise the profile of fostering - families were invited to YMCA Fairthorne Manor for a day of outdoor adventure. With the glorious sunshine above, children of all ages could be heard enjoying climbing, abseiling, crate challenge, aerial assault, the bouncy pillow, the water slide, and plenty of garden games.
The event was also a perfect chance for Children’s Services staff to speak with foster families as well providing the opportunity for foster families, who may not have seen each other in a long time, to socialise and relax while the children made the most of the exclusive outdoor space.
Sarah Smith, Service Manager for Fostering and Adoption, said, “It was so lovely to see so many foster families at the event. The children were so polite and well mannered. I hope everyone enjoyed spending time together in the beautiful weather while the children exhausted themselves.”
In addition to the adventurous activities, there was also the option to enjoy a picnic on the lawn or to spend some quieter time in the craft tent. The children made some marvellous artistic creations including suncatchers and personalised bunting which was hung up at the event for everyone to admire, creating a family-friendly festival atmosphere.
Before heading home, attendees were able to enjoy delicious ice cream and cake. This was an ideal addition to the beautiful summer’s day and greatly received after the children had stepped outside their comfort zones to bravely take on the aerial challenges.
Foster carers who attended said, “Our young people really enjoyed the challenges which suited their ages. It was relaxed and safe. The organization of the event was perfect and matched the venue which allowed carers to relax and enjoy the afternoon with our children. The event built up our children's confidence, they tried new things and made a lasting happy memory.”
A second family fun day then took place in October to align with Hampshire County Council’s own Foster Focus Week, which highlights the incredible work of our foster carers and encourages other locals to consider fostering themselves.
Foster families were welcomed to an afternoon at Winchester Science Centre. With the rain pouring outside, families were able to enjoy exclusive use of the indoor venue and all the interactive and engaging displays and exhibits, without the typical crowds.
Throughout the afternoon, there were several exciting science demonstrations to surprise and delight the children as well as various space-themed crafts and a fantastic face painter.
The feedback from foster carers was overwhelmingly positive. One carer mentioned that they appreciated, “Watching the children enjoy themselves with plenty of space, eating pizza and feeling valued being around the management. A great evening and three tired and excited children.”
After an evening meal of plates piled high with pizza, foster families headed into the planetarium theatre for a dazzling show about the planets, stars, and universe.
Once again, the event provided a great opportunity for staff and foster carers to catch up with each other whilst ensuring all the children had a wonderful time.
Consequently, many foster carers plan to revisit Winchester Science Centre as it offers free admission to foster families when you book. Please see their website for the specific terms and conditions.
Fostering Hampshire Children are now looking forward to inviting foster carers and all the children in their homes to future family fun day events in 2024.
To find out more about becoming a foster carer, visit the Fostering Hampshire Children website and download an information pack, or call the team on 01489 587052.